Mountains are not hard to find in the Austrian ski resort – host of the Winter Olympics in 1964 and 1976 – giving the climbers the chance to battle for the rainbow jersey for the first time in a number of years.

Doha 2016 and Bergen 2017 will suit the sprinters in the peloton, with more hilly routes coming in 2013 (Florence) and 2014 (Ponferrada)

“I have no doubt that Innsbruck will provide a stunning and challenging route for riders to compete on, as well as a wonderful, unique backdrop that can only add to the spectator and viewer experience,” said UCI President Brian Cookson.

It will be the third time that the World Championships has been held in Austria, following Villach in 1987 and Salzburg in 2006.

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